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The Key to it All (Vols. 1 & 2) - Reference Guide & Correspondences

Overview

These sources provide an encyclopedic guide to various esoteric and magickal systems, focusing heavily on alphabets, numerology, and mystical correspondences. The text explores the numerical and symbolic values of sacred languages, including Hebrew Qabalah, Greek Isopsephy, Sanskrit, Tibetan, and Cuneiform, detailing multiple cipher methods and their application to words like "Adam" and "Love." Furthermore, the work examines Western traditions such as the Tarot, Runes, Enochian magick, and Geomancy, often connecting them to astrological attributes, the Tree of Life, and cosmologies from figures like Aleister Crowley and G.I. Gurdjieff. Numerous tables and discussions are dedicated to the structure and symbolism of these systems, including the complex Enochian Watchtowers and the esoteric meaning encoded within the Waite Tarot deck.

The Eastern Mysteries (Volume One)

This dense compilation serves as a specialized, cross-cultural guide to the esoteric relationships between alphabets, numbers, and mystical systems from various traditions, with a particular focus on numerological codes. The text methodically explores ancient alphanumeric systems, such as the Hebrew Qabalah (including the Sephiroth and the 231 Gates of the Sepher Yetzirah), Greek isopsephy, and the stroke-count method for Chinese calligraphy and the I Ching hexagrams. A significant portion of the work is dedicated to correlating these numerical structures with Western esoteric orders like the Golden Dawn and the philosophical systems of G.I. Gurdjieff, as well as Eastern traditions like the Sanskrit Tattvas and the Chakra system, demonstrating a comprehensive effort to unlock universal occult correspondences.

The Western Mysteries (Volume Two)

This document presents an exhaustive exploration of Western esoteric traditions through the lens of numerology, alphabets, and symbolism, positioning itself as a comprehensive guide to mystical knowledge. The text meticulously details the magickal basis of major Western systems, including the Greek and Coptic alphabets and number systems, alongside profound analyses of the Hebrew Qabalah as the foundational cornerstone. Furthermore, it delves into complex divinatory tools like the Tarot (emphasizing the Golden Dawn attributions) and Geomancy, as well as specialized subjects such as the intricate Enochian system of John Dee and the ancient calendrical lore of the Aztecs and Mayans. Ultimately, the work aims to be the definitive reference for understanding the numerical dimensions and secret correspondences underlying sacred words and mystical practices across diverse cultures.

A Comprehensive Reference Manual of Sacred Languages and Magickal Systems

1.0 Introduction: The Power of the Sacred Word and Number

MH HBVNH = M. A. B. N.

Nothing but a faint resemblance of the letter G! That is not the Master's word, nor a key to it. I fear the Master's word is forever lost.

—from the Third, or Master Mason's, Degree

Within the Western Mystery Tradition, no legend better encapsulates the quest for esoteric knowledge than the Masonic allegory of the "lost word." The story centers on Hiram Abiff, King Solomon's chief architect, who is murdered for refusing to reveal the secret fourfold word of power. In the ritual of the Master Mason's Degree, the candidate symbolically relives Hiram's death and resurrection, a process culminating in the recovery of this word. Yet, the word whispered to the newly raised initiate—"MAH HAH BOH NAY"—is not the true word, but a substitute. Masonic rubrics write it as three syllables, but it is secretly pronounced as four, and its origin lies not in French or mere fancy, but in the sacred language of Hebrew.

As Hebrew, Mah Hah Boh Nay (מה הבונה) translates to the question, "What? Is this the Builder's Word?" It is a coded inquiry, acknowledging that this is a placeholder for the true lost word: the Tetragrammaton, the four-lettered name of God (IHVH). This quest for a word of power, a sonic key that can unlock creation, is a foundational principle of esoteric philosophy. It presumes that the universe is encoded in a divine language, and that profound truths are revealed in the relationship between language, number, and cosmology.

The ancient Greek method of isopsephism, a form of gematria, provides a powerful illustration of this principle. By assigning a numerical value to each letter of the alphabet, hidden connections between seemingly disparate concepts can be revealed. Consider the Greek words Agape (Αγάπη), meaning Love, and Thelema (Θέλημα), meaning Will:

  • Αγάπη (Agape) = α (1) + γ (3) + α (1) + π (80) + η (8) = 93
  • Θέλημα (Thelema) = θ (9) + ε (5) + λ (30) + η (8) + μ (40) + α (1) = 93

The numerical equivalence of Love and Will to the number 93 is no mere coincidence; it is a revelation, suggesting a profound mystical identity between the two concepts. This manual serves as a practical reference and a working key to unlock these sacred languages and magickal systems. From the cosmological foundations of the elements and planets to the intricate alphanumeric codes of Hebrew, Greek, Runic, and Enochian traditions, the following sections provide the necessary tools for the modern researcher and practitioner to continue the Great Work of decoding the divine language of the universe.

2.0 Foundational Cosmological Correspondences

Before delving into the intricate alphanumeric codes of specific magickal languages, it is essential to grasp the foundational cosmological frameworks that underpin them. Across numerous esoteric traditions, a shared symbolic language emerges from the universal patterns of the elements, the seven classical planets, and the twelve signs of the zodiac. These systems provide the structural context and symbolic grammar upon which the sacred alphabets are built, allowing practitioners to map the macrocosm of the universe to the microcosm of the human soul.

2.1 The Elemental Keys: The Building Blocks of Creation

The classification of the cosmos into a cycle of elements represents a primary building block in both Eastern and Western cosmological models. These systems, ranging from threefold to fivefold divisions, provide a fundamental key to understanding the nature of creation.

1. The Threefold System

In Alchemy, the cosmos is understood through three root-essence elements: Sulfur, Salt, and Mercury. Sulfur represents the fiery, active male principle; Salt is the fluidic, receptive female principle; and their interaction gives rise to Mercury, the airy, androgynous, and equalizing force. This triadic system is mirrored in the Qabalistic Sepher Yetzirah, which uses the three Hebrew mother letters—Shin (Fire), Mem (Water), and Aleph (Air)—to categorize the 22 paths of the Tree of Life. A notable variation exists within the Golden Dawn tradition, which assigns Sulfur to red, Mercury to blue, and Salt to yellow, an alteration made to align the system with the colors of the five Hindu Tattvas.

AttributeSulfur (Fire)Mercury (Air)Salt (Water)
PowerPenetratingEqualizingYielding
GenderMaleAndrogynousFemale
FamilyFatherChildMother
ColorRedYellowBlue
MetallicGoldenVariegatedSilvery
TarotJudgementThe FoolThe Hanged Man
Greek iAOAlpha (First)Iota (Middle)Omega (Last)
Tree of LifeChockmahKetherBinah
2. The Fourfold Systems

The division of creation into four elements is a cornerstone of Western esotericism, primarily expressed through two distinct ordering systems.

Tetragrammaton Elemental Order

Rooted in the Hebrew Qabalah, this system arranges the elements according to the four letters of the Tetragrammaton (IHVH), linking them to the archetypal family unit and the suits of the Tarot. This order—Fire, Water, Air, Earth—is considered the esoteric sequence used in modern magick.

AttributeFire (Yod)Water (Heh)Air (Vav)Earth (Heh Final)
GenderMaleFemaleMaleFemale
FamilyFatherMotherSonDaughter
Direction (Enochian)SouthWestEastNorth
Tarot SuitsWandsCupsSwordsPentacles
ArchangelRaphaelMichaelUrielGabriel
KerubManLionEagleOx
==Joshua Abraham's 33rd Degreee Masonic Infiltration==LionManEagleOx
...................(Force Power & Holy Book)Qur'an - Control via SubmissionKing James Bible - Power of the Apostles to Heal OthersCurrently the Book of the Law, Historically the Book of the Dead - Control via DemonologyVedic Scriptures - Power of Healing Yourself

Renaissance-Alchemical Elemental Order

Derived from the Hellenistic tradition of Plato and Aristotle, this system orders the four elements as gradations of refined matter, from the most ethereal (Fire) to the densest (Earth). This is often considered the exoteric order.

AttributeFireAirWaterEarth
QualityHotMoistColdDry
HumorCholerPhelgmBloodMelancholy
DirectionEastWestNorthSouth
ManMindSpiritSoulBody
3. The Fivefold System

The fourfold elemental system can be expanded to five with the inclusion of Spirit, a system known as the Pentagrammaton. This corresponds to the Hebrew name for Jesus, Yehoshuah (I-H-Sh-V-H), where the letter Shin (Spirit/Fire) is placed between the Heh and Vav of the Tetragrammaton. The fivefold model provides a crucial bridge between Western and Eastern elemental traditions.

Western and Eastern Elements
WesternIndian (Tattvas)Chinese
SpiritAkashaEarth
AirVayuWood
FireTejasFire
WaterApasWater
EarthPrithiviMetal

2.2 The Planetary Keys: The Seven Celestial Spheres

The lore of the seven classical planets is a central pillar of the Western magickal tradition. From the seven days of the week to the seven alchemical metals, this celestial septenary provides a rich symbolic framework for understanding cosmic forces.

1. Graeco-Roman Planetary Deities
PlanetDeity
SaturnCronus
JupiterZeus
MarsAres
SunHelios
VenusAphrodite
MercuryHermes
MoonArtemis
2. Greek Qabalah Values

The Greek names for these deities possess numerical values that were central to Hellenistic number mysticism.

Greek Qabalah for the Seven Planetary Deities
PlanetGreek NameNumber Value
SaturnΚΡΟΝΟΣ510
JupiterΖΕΥΣ612
MarsΑΡΗΣ309
SunΗΛΙΟΣ318
VenusΑΦΡΟΔΙΤΗ993
MercuryΕΡΜΗΣ353
MoonΑΡΤΕΜΙΣ656
Total:3,751
3. Astrological Symbols & Alchemical Metals

During the Renaissance, alchemists developed specific symbols for the seven planets, linking each to a corresponding metal.

Planet & SymbolAlchemical Metal
Sun ☉Gold
Moon ☽Silver
Mercury ☿Quicksilver
Venus ♀Copper
Mars ♂Iron
Jupiter ♃Tin
Saturn ♄Lead
4. Platonic Order and Greek Vowels

The Platonic order of the planets, arranged by their cosmic spheres from the outermost (Saturn) to the innermost (Moon), corresponds to the seven Greek vowels.

Platonic Planetary Order and the Seven Greek Vowels
PlanetSphereGreek Vowel
SaturnSeventhΩ (Omega)
JupiterSixthΥ (Upsilon)
MarsFifthΟ (Omicron)
SunFourthΙ (Iota)
VenusThirdΗ (Eta)
MercurySecondΕ (Epsilon)
MoonFirstΑ (Alpha)
5. Dee's Planetary Monad

The 16th-century magician John Dee devised a single symbol, the Monas Hieroglyphica, to unite the powers of the seven planets. Each planetary symbol can be derived from the components of this master sigil.

The Seven Planets on the Monad
PlanetSignMonad Derivation
SaturnThe cross of the elements placed above the crescent of the Moon.
JupiterThe crescent of the Moon placed above the cross of the elements.
MarsThe circle of the Sun with the cross of the elements placed above it as an arrow.
SunThe central circle with its center point.
VenusThe circle of the Sun placed above the cross of the elements.
MercuryThe full Monad: the crescent of the Moon above the circle of the Sun, above the cross of the elements.
MoonThe crescent at the top of the Monad.
6. Days of the Week and Planetary Hours

The cycle of the seven planets governs both the days of the week and the 168 hours within it. This entire system, crucial for determining auspicious times for magickal workings, is derived from the astrological attributions of the Greek alphabet. Each day is ruled by a planet, and each hour of that day falls under the influence of a specific planetary ruler in a repeating sequence.

Planetary Ruler for the 168 Hours of the Week
Day / HourSunMonTueWedThuFriSat
12-1 AMMercuryJupiterVenusSaturnSunMoonMars
1-2 AMMoonMarsMercuryJupiterVenusSaturnSun
2-3 AMSaturnSunMoonMarsMercuryJupiterVenus
3-4 AMJupiterVenusSaturnSunMoonMarsMercury
4-5 AMMarsMercuryJupiterVenusSaturnSunMoon
5-6 AMSunMoonMarsMercuryJupiterVenusSaturn
6-7 AMVenusSaturnSunMoonMarsMercuryJupiter
7-8 AMMercuryJupiterVenusSaturnSunMoonMars
8-9 AMMoonMarsMercuryJupiterVenusSaturnSun
9-10 AMSaturnSunMoonMarsMercuryJupiterVenus
10-11 AMJupiterVenusSaturnSunMoonMarsMercury
11 AM-12 PMMarsMercuryJupiterVenusSaturnSunMoon
12-1 PMSunMoonMarsMercuryJupiterVenusSaturn
1-2 PMVenusSaturnSunMoonMarsMercuryJupiter
2-3 PMMercuryJupiterVenusSaturnSunMoonMars
3-4 PMMoonMarsMercuryJupiterVenusSaturnSun
4-5 PMSaturnSunMoonMarsMercuryJupiterVenus
5-6 PMJupiterVenusSaturnSunMoonMarsMercury
6-7 PMMarsMercuryJupiterVenusSaturnSunMoon
7-8 PMSunMoonMarsMercuryJupiterVenusSaturn
8-9 PMVenusSaturnSunMoonMarsMercuryJupiter
9-10 PMMercuryJupiterVenusSaturnSunMoonMars
10-11 PMMoonMarsMercuryJupiterVenusSaturnSun
11 PM-12 AMSaturnSunMoonMarsMercuryJupiterVenus

2.3 The Zodiacal Keys: The Twelve Divisions of Heaven

The Zodiac is an ancient system that divides the celestial sphere into twelve 30-degree segments, each associated with a symbolic sign. This framework provides a detailed map for understanding temporal cycles and planetary influences.

1. The Twelve Signs
OrderNameImageOrderNameImage
1AriesRam7LibraScales
2TaurusBull8ScorpioScorpion
3GeminiTwins9SagittariusCentaur
4CancerCrab10CapricornGoat-Fish
5LeoLion11AquariusWater-Bearer
6VirgoVirgin12PiscesFishes
2. Elemental Divisions

The twelve signs are grouped by element into four triplicities (three signs per element) and by quality into three quadruplicities (four signs per quality: Cardinal, Fixed, Mutable). The elemental grouping follows the Tetragrammaton order.

Tetragrammaton Elemental Order as the Precession of the Signs
FireWaterAirEarth
AriesPiscesAquariusCapricorn
SagittariusScorpioLibraVirgo
LeoCancerGeminiTaurus
3. Planetary Influences

Each zodiacal sign is "ruled" by one of the seven classical planets, which exerts a primary influence over it. This creates an "alchemical ladder" of rulerships. Beyond simple rulership, planets have four states of dignity within a sign: Domicile (Rulership), Exaltation, Detriment, and Fall.

Alchemical Ladder of Planetary Rulers for the Zodiac
SignPlanetary RulerSign
CancerMoonSun
GeminiMercuryVirgo
TaurusVenusLibra
AriesMarsScorpio
PiscesJupiterSagittarius
AquariusSaturnCapricorn
Planetary Dignities for the Zodiac
SignDomicile (Ruler)ExaltationDetrimentFall
AriesMarsSunVenusSaturn
TaurusVenusMoonMars-
GeminiMercury-Jupiter-
CancerMoonJupiterSaturnMars
LeoSun-Saturn-
VirgoMercuryMercuryJupiterVenus
LibraVenusSaturnMarsSun
ScorpioMars-VenusMoon
SagittariusJupiter-Mercury-
CapricornSaturnMarsMoonJupiter
AquariusSaturn-Sun-
PiscesJupiterVenusMercuryMercury
4. Zodiac of the Human Body

Astrological traditions link the twelve signs to different parts of the human body. The Hebrew Qabalah, particularly the Sepher Yetzirah, offers a distinct set of these correspondences.

ZodiacTraditionalQabalistic
AriesHeadRight hand
TaurusThroat, neckLeft hand
GeminiShoulders, arms, handsRight foot
CancerStomachLeft foot
LeoHeartRight kidney
VirgoIntestinesLeft kidney
LibraKidneysGall bladder
ScorpioGenitalsIntestines
SagittariusHips, thighsStomach
CapricornKneesLiver
AquariusAnklesSpleen
PiscesFeetHeart
5. The Precession of the Equinoxes

The Great Zodiacal Year refers to the slow "wobble" of the Earth's axis, which causes the position of the sunrise on the vernal equinox to move backward through the zodiacal signs over a period of roughly 25,920 years. Each "age," lasting approximately 2,160 years, is defined by the sign in which the equinox occurs.

Precession of the Equinoxes
AgePeriod of TimeEventsZodiac
Taurian4320 BCE - 2160 BCEOrigin of number, alphabetTaurus
Aryan2160 BCE - 0Qabalah, I ChingAries
Piscean0 - 2160 CEChristian Era, TarotPisces
Aquarian2160 CE - 4320 CEThe future of the worldAquarius

Aleister Crowley proposed a different timeline, arguing the Age of Aquarius began in 1904 with his reception of The Book of the Law.

Crowley's Precession of the Equinoxes
AgeTimeSocietyCultFamilyEgyptian Liber AL
Aries2000 BCE - 0MatriarchGoddessMotherIsis
Pisces0 - 1904 CEPatriarchJesusFatherOsiris
Aquarius1904 CE - ?EqualityThelemaChildHorus

2.4 The Art of Geomancy: An Oracle of Earth

Geomancy is a divinatory system, often considered the Western equivalent of the Chinese I Ching, based on 16 figures composed of four lines of either odd (one dot) or even (two dots) points. These figures are constructed from four fundamental two-line patterns, or bigrams, each with its own elemental and symbolic meaning.

Four Bigrams of Geomancy
Bigram ShapeElementMeaningGeomancy Figure

AirAccess, movement, path (life)Via

• •
FireLoss, blockage, off balanceAmissio
• •
WaterGain, addition, in balanceAcquisitio
• •
• •
EarthTo collect, group, unite (death)Populus

These universal cosmological systems—elemental, planetary, zodiacal, and geomantic—provide the essential context and symbolic architecture for understanding the specific alphanumeric codes of the magickal languages that follow.

3.0 The Western Mystery Traditions

The esoteric traditions of the West, rooted primarily in the fertile grounds of Hebrew Qabalah, Greek philosophy, and Egyptian Hermeticism, developed a host of complex alphabetic and symbolic codes. These systems were designed not merely as methods of communication, but as comprehensive maps of the universe and the human soul, where each letter and number holds a key to divine wisdom. This section serves as a practical guide to these individual systems, offering the foundational knowledge needed to decipher their secrets.

3.1 The Hebrew System: The Foundation of Western Qabalah

The Hebrew Qabalah is the cornerstone of the Western Mystery Tradition. Its 22-letter alphabet is not merely phonetic but serves as a complete cosmological, astrological, and spiritual framework.

1. The Alphabet and Number Values

Each Hebrew letter has both a nominal value (used in gematria) and a positional value (denoting its place in the alphabet). The alphabet also includes five "final" forms for letters that appear at the end of a word, which have distinct numerical values.

Hebrew Alphabet Code
LetterTransliterationNameNominal ValuePositional Value
אAAleph11
בBBeth22
גGGimel33
דDDaleth44
הHHeh55
וVVav66
זZZain77
חChCheth88
טTTeth99
יIYod1010
כKKaph2011
לLLamed3012
מMMem4013
נNNun5014
סSSamekh6015
עOAyin7016
פPPeh8017
צTzTzaddi9018
קQQoph10019
רRResh20020
שShShin30021
תThTav40022
Finals
ךKfKaph Final50023
םMfMem Final60024
ןNfNun Final70025
ףPfPeh Final80026
ץTzfTzaddi Final90027
2. Hieroglyphic Meanings

Each Hebrew letter's name possesses a literal meaning, providing a deeper layer of symbolic, or "hieroglyphic," interpretation. This allows for a pictorial and conceptual analysis of words beyond their numerical value.

LetterLetter NameNumber Value of Letter NameHieroglyphic Meaning of Letter Name
אALP (אלף)111 (831)Ox, bull, cattle; thousandfold; to teach, tame; leader
בBITh (בית)412House, home, temple, container; inside, within; family
גGML (גמל)73Camel; to nourish, wean a child; bridge, arch
דDLTh (דלת)434Door, gate, leaf of a folding door; womb, vagina
הHH (הה)10Window, lattice, opening; to be, exist; behold, lo
וVV (וו)12Nail, peg, hook; to join, unite, conjoin; penis
זZIN (זין)67 (717)Sword, weapon, dagger; to arm, adorn; kind, species
חChITh (חית)418Fence, enclosure, barrier; to surround; terror, fear
טTITh (טית)419Serpent, to twist, bend; mud, clay; the matrix
יIVD (יוד)20Hand, finger, forearm; power, might; to throw, project
כKPh (כף)100 (820)Left hand, palm of hand, hollow; to bend, curve
לLMD (למד)74Ox-goad; to teach, instruct, learn; staff, rod
מMIM (מים)90 (650)Water, seas, oceans, fluids; mighty, multitude
נNVN (נון)106 (756)Fish; to sprout, grow, increase; kingdom, offspring
סSMK (סמך)120 (600)Prop, support, crutch; to lean on, uphold, aid
עOIN (עין)130 (780)Eye, face, sight, perception; spring, well, fountain
פPH (פה)85 (81)Mouth, opening, orifice; to speak, breathe, vibrate
צTzDI (צדי)104Fishhook; to hunt, capture; to be bent, prostrate
קQVP (קוף)186Back of the head, ear, nape of neck; ape, monkey
רRISh (ריש)510Head, top, beginning, chief; face, countenance
שShIN (שין)360 (1010)Tooth, fang; to sharpen, pierce; transformation
תThV (תו)406Cross, mark, sign, symbol; cross within a circle
3. The 32 Paths of Wisdom

The seminal Qabalistic text, the Sepher Yetzirah ("Book of Formation"), describes the universe as being composed of 32 "wonderful paths of wisdom." These consist of the ten Sephiroth (numbers or emanations) and the 22 Hebrew letters that form the connecting paths between them on the Tree of Life. Each path is associated with a specific mode of intelligence.

The Thirty-Two Paths of Wisdom
PathTree of Life Station / LetterCorresponding Intelligence
1KetherMystical Intelligence
2ChockmahIlluminating Intelligence
3BinahSanctifying Intelligence
4ChesedMeasuring Intelligence
5GeburahRoot Intelligence
6TipherethMediating Intelligence
7NetzachSecret Intelligence
8HodPerfect Intelligence
9YesodPure Intelligence
10MalkuthResplendent Intelligence
11Aleph (א)Scintillating Intelligence
12Beth (ב)Transparency Intelligence
13Gimel (ג)Uniting Intelligence
14Daleth (ד)Illuminating Intelligence
15Heh (ה)Constituting Intelligence
16Vav (ו)Triumphant Intelligence
17Zain (ז)Disposing Intelligence
18Cheth (ח)House of Influence Intelligence
19Teth (ט)Secret of All Spiritual Activities Intelligence
20Yod (י)Will Intelligence
21Kaph (כ)Conciliation Intelligence
22Lamed (ל)Faithful Intelligence
23Mem (מ)Stable Intelligence
24Nun (נ)Imaginative Intelligence
25Samekh (ס)Tentative Intelligence
26Ayin (ע)Renovating Intelligence
27Peh (פ)Exciting Intelligence
28Tzaddi (צ)Natural Intelligence
29Qoph (ק)Corporeal Intelligence
30Resh (ר)Collecting Intelligence
31Shin (ש)Perpetual Intelligence
32Tav (ת)Administrative Intelligence

3.2 The Greek System: Philosophy and Gnosis

The Greek tradition contributed immensely to Western esotericism, providing sophisticated systems of number philosophy, alphanumeric codes, and Gnostic cosmology.

1. Numeral Systems

Ancient Greece utilized several methods for representing numbers before settling on the familiar alphanumeric system.

Homeric Greek Numerals (Serial Order)
LetterValueLetterValueLetterValue
A1I9R17
B2K10S18
G3L11T19
D4M12U20
E5N13Ph21
Z6X14Ch22
H7O15Ps23
Th8P16O24
Herodianic Greek Numerals (c. 600 BCE)

This system resembled Roman numerals, using six select letters to represent powers of ten.

LetterValueParallel Roman Numeral
Ι1I
Π5V
Δ10X
Η100C
Χ1,000M
Μ10,000
2. Alphabetical Correspondences

The standard Greek system assigns numerical values from 1 to 900 to its 24 letters, plus three archaic letters.

LetterNameTransliterationNumber ValuePositional ValueHebrew Model
Α, αAlphaA, a11Aleph (א)
Β, βBetaB, b22Beth (ב)
Γ, γGammaG, g33Gimel (ג)
Δ, δDeltaD, d44Daleth (ד)
Ε, εEpsilonE, e55Heh (ה)
Ϛ, ϛStigma/StauSt6Vav (ו)
Ζ, ζZetaZ, z76Zain (ז)
Η, ηEtaE, e87Cheth (ח)
Θ, θThetaTh, th98Teth (ט)
Ι, ιIotaI, i109Yod (י)
Κ, κKappaK, k2010Kaph (כ)
Λ, λLambdaL, l3011Lamed (ל)
Μ, μMuM, m4012Mem (מ)
Ν, νNuN, n5013Nun (נ)
Ξ, ξXiX, x6014Samekh (ס)
Ο, οOmicronO, o7015Ayin (ע)
Π, πPiP, p8016Peh (פ)
Ϙ, ϙQoppaQ90Tzaddi (צ)
Ρ, ρRhoR, r10017Resh (ר)
Σ, σ, ςSigmaS, s20018Shin (ש)
Τ, τTauT, t30019Tav (ת)
Υ, υUpsilonU, u40020
Φ, φPhiPh, ph50021
Χ, χChiCh, ch60022
Ψ, ψPsiPs, ps70023
Ω, ωOmegaO, o80024
Ϡ, ϡSampiS900
3. Gnostic Cosmology

Gnostic traditions described the universe as emanating from a divine source through a series of 30 spiritual principles, or Aeons, often arranged in male-female pairs.

The Thirty Aeons
OrderEnglish NameGreek NameOrderEnglish NameGreek Name
1Deep (n)BUThOS16BlendingSYGKRASIS
2IdeaENNOIA17Only-begottenMONOGENES
3MindNOUS18HappinessMAKARIOTES
4TruthALETHEIA19AdvocatePARAKLETOS
5WordLOGOS20FaithPISTIS
6LifeZOE21FatherlyPATRIKOS
7HumanityANTHROPOS22HopeELPIS
8ChurchECCLESIA23MotherlyMETRIKOS
9Deep (adj.)BATHYS24LoveAGAPE
10MixingMIXIS25Ever-thinkingAEINOUS
11UnagingAGERATOS26UnderstandingSYNESIS
12UnionHENOSIS27Church-likeECCLESIASTIKOS
13Self-ExistentAUTOPHUES28FelicityMAKARIOTES
14PleasureHEDONE29DesiredTHELETOS
15ImmovableAKINETOS30WisdomSOPHIA
4. Christian Number Mysteries

Early Christian and Gnostic traditions placed great significance on numbers, particularly triple-digit numbers, which were seen as holding profound spiritual keys.

The Christian Mysteries Concerning the Triple Numbers 111 to 999
NumberGreek Words and PhrasesMeaning
111ΚΛΕΙΣ, ΕΝΝΕΑ, ΟΙΚΙΑKey, Nine, House/dwelling
222ΝΑΖΑΡΗΝΕNazarene, a title of Jesus
333ΓΑΙΗΣEarth
444Ο ΑΓΓΕΛΟΣ ΘΕΟΥThe angel of God
555ΠΕΝΤΑΚΙΣ, ΠΛΕΥΡΑΝFive times (Christ's wounds), Side (spear wound)
666ΣΤΑΥΡΟΣ, ΤΟ ΜΕΓΑ ΘΗΡΙΟΝCross, The Great Wild Beast
777ΑΓΑΠΗΣ ΘΕΟΥLove of God
888ΙΗΣΟΥΣSix-lettered formula for the name Jesus
999ΘΕΟΣ ΕΝ ΣΑΡΚΙGod in the flesh
5. Pythagorean Number Symbolism

For the Pythagoreans, number was the principle of all things. Their supreme symbol was the Tetractys, a triangular arrangement of ten points that represented the entire cosmos. Each of the first ten numbers, from the Monad (1) to the Decad (10), possessed a wealth of symbolic and philosophical attributes.

  • 1. MONAD (The One)
    • Appellations: Mind, Hermaphrodite, Essence, God, Tower of Jupiter.
    • Geometry: The Point, the source of all figures.
    • Measure: Form, the source of all colors.
    • Gender: Male and Female (containing both odd and even).
    • Cosmos: Kether (Crown), the Primum Mobile (9th sphere).
  • 2. DUAD (The Two)
    • Appellations: Daring, Matter, Fountain of all harmonies, Erato (Muse).
    • Geometry: The Line (a point in motion), the first dimension.
    • Measure: Inequitable, Excess and Defect.
    • Gender: Female (the first even number).
    • Cosmos: Chokmah (Wisdom), The Fixed Stars (8th sphere).
  • 3. TRIAD (The Three)
    • Appellations: Proportion, Friendship, Peace, Prudence, Piety.
    • Geometry: The Surface (the second dimension), the triangle.
    • Measure: The threefold measure of time (Past-Present-Future).
    • Gender: Male (the first true odd number).
    • Cosmos: Binah (Understanding), Saturn, Water (as third element).
  • 4. TETRAD (The Four)
    • Appellations: Impetuous, Strength, Justice, Hercules.
    • Geometry: The Solid (the third dimension), the pyramid.
    • Measure: The four seasons.
    • Gender: Female.
    • Cosmos: Chesed (Mercy), Jupiter, Earth (as fourth element).
  • 5. PENTAD (The Five)
    • Appellations: Equilibrium, Light, Justice, Nemesis, Pallas.
    • Geometry: The pentagram, the sphere.
    • Measure: The five senses.
    • Gender: Male and Female (as 3 + 2).
    • Cosmos: Geburah (Severity), Mars, Ether (as fifth element).
  • 6. HEXAD (The Six)
    • Appellations: Form of Form, Peace, Amphitrite, Thalia (Muse).
    • Geometry: The Hexagram, the cube.
    • Measure: The six directions of space (from a central point).
    • Gender: Male and Female (as 2 x 3).
    • Cosmos: Tiphereth (Beauty), Sun, Venus (as sixth orbit).
  • 7. HEPTAD (The Seven)
    • Appellations: Fortune, Opportunity, Clio (Muse), Osiris, Pallas.
    • Geometry: Point, line, surface, and solid combined.
    • Measure: The seven notes of the octave.
    • Gender: Androgynous, Virginal.
    • Cosmos: Netzach (Victory), Venus, Mercury (as seventh orbit).
  • 8. OGDOAD (The Eight)
    • Appellations: Cadmaea, Mother, Rhea, Euterpe (Muse).
    • Geometry: The first cube (2x2x2).
    • Measure: The eight tones of the full octave.
    • Gender: Female.
    • Cosmos: Hod (Splendor), Mercury, Moon (as eighth orbit).
  • 9. ENNEAD (The Nine)
    • Appellations: Ocean, Horizon, Prometheus, Hyperion, Concord.
    • Geometry: The first odd square (3x3), the enneagram.
    • Measure: The nine months of gestation.
    • Gender: Doubly masculine (as odd and as a square of an odd).
    • Cosmos: Yesod (Foundation), Moon (as 9x9 magic square).
  • 10. DECAD (The Ten)
    • Appellations: The World, Heaven, All, Fate, Eternity, Memory.
    • Geometry: Contains all numbers and dimensions.
    • Measure: The basis of all counting systems.
    • Gender: Male and Female.
    • Cosmos: Malkuth (Kingdom), The Earth, the complete Tree of Life.

3.3 The Coptic System: The Magick of Egypt

The Coptic alphabet and its associated lore represent a crucial bridge, filtering the ancient mysteries of Egypt through a Hellenistic and Gnostic lens.

1. The Alphabet

The Coptic alphabet consists of the 24 letters of the Greek alphabet plus six additional characters derived from Egyptian Demotic script, giving it a total of 30 letters with astrological and Qabalistic correspondences.

Coptic LetterNameValueAstrologicalTree of Life Path
Alpha1Sun15 (Heh)
Beta2Venus12 (Beth)
Gamma3Mercury13 (Gimel)
Delta4Moon14 (Daleth)
Epsilon5Aries16 (Vav)
So6Gemini17 (Zain)
Zeta7Cancer18 (Cheth)
Eta8Leo19 (Teth)
Theta9Virgo20 (Yod)
Iota10Libra21 (Kaph)
Kappa20Scorpio22 (Lamed)
Laula30Sagittarius23 (Mem)
Me40Capricorn24 (Nun)
Ne50Aquarius25 (Samekh)
Exi60Pisces26 (Ayin)
O70Mars27 (Peh)
Pi80Taurus28 (Tzaddi)
Ro100Mercury30 (Resh)
Sima200Jupiter11 (Aleph)
Tau300Saturn31 (Shin)
Upsilon400Earth32 (Tav)
Phi500
Chi600
Psi700
O800
ϢShai900
ϤFai90
ϦKhai-
ϨHori-
ϪJanja-
2. Egyptian Numerals

Egyptian hieroglyphic writing used eight basic ideograms for the decimal system, from 1 to 1,000,000.

Eight Egyptian Hieroglyphic Numerals
HieroglyphMeaningNumber ValueParallel Hebrew/Greek
Vertical StrokeStroke, line1A (א) / Α
Heel BoneHeel bone10I (י) / Ι
Coil of RopeCoil of rope100Q (ק) / Ρ
Lotus FlowerLotus flower1,000A (enlarged) / Χ
Pointing FingerPointing finger10,000
FrogFrog100,000
Man with Raised ArmsMan with raised arms1,000,000
3. Egyptian Fractions

Fractions were expressed using parts of the Eye of Horus (Udjat). According to legend, the god Set tore Horus's eye into six pieces, which the god Thoth later reassembled. The sum of the fractions is 63/64; Thoth was said to have magickally supplied the missing 1/64.

Egyptian Udjat Fractions
Part of UdjatFractional ValueSymbolic Meaning
Right side of the eye1/2The right side of the right eye
Iris of the eye1/4The iris of the eye
Right eyebrow1/8The right eyebrow
Left side of the eye1/16The left side of the right eye
Teardrop shape1/32Hieroglyph resembling a coil of rope
Stylized falcon marking1/64A stylized falcon marking
4. The Egyptian Calendar

The Egyptian year consisted of 12 months of 30 days each, totaling 360 days. To align with the solar year, five extra "epagomenic" days were added at the end, dedicated to the birth of five key deities.

Conversion Table for Egyptian Year Cycle
MonthOrderEgyptian SeasonCorresponding Dates
1. Thoth1st of InundationAkhetAug 29 - Sep 27
2. Phaophi2nd of InundationAkhetSep 28 - Oct 27
3. Athyr3rd of InundationAkhetOct 28 - Nov 26
4. Khoiak4th of InundationAkhetNov 27 - Dec 26
5. Tobi1st of SpringPertDec 27 - Jan 25
6. Mekhir2nd of SpringPertJan 26 - Feb 24
7. Phamenoth3rd of SpringPertFeb 25 - Mar 26
8. Pharmuthi4th of SpringPertMar 27 - Apr 25
9. Pakhon1st of SummerSemutApr 26 - May 25
10. Paoini2nd of SummerSemutMay 26 - Jun 24
11. Epep3rd of SummerSemutJun 25 - Jul 24
12. Mesore4th of SummerSemutJul 25 - Aug 23
Nu's Five Extra Days of the Year
Epagomenic DayGod-FormDate
1OsirisAugust 24
2HorusAugust 25
3SetAugust 26
4IsisAugust 27
5NephthysAugust 28
5. Horapollo's Hieroglyphic Key

The Hieroglyphics of Horapollo, a text from around 400 CE, provided the Renaissance with a key to the symbolic (rather than phonetic) meaning of Egyptian hieroglyphs. Though not always historically accurate, it was profoundly influential on Renaissance Hermetic art and symbolism.

ImageSymbolic Meaning
BaboonThe equinoxes, the Moon, a scribe.
VultureThe mother, sight, boundaries, the year.
EagleGod, sublime victory, the Sun, the soul.
HawkGod, sublimity, blood, victory.
Serpent (Uraeus)Eternity.
Scarab BeetleThe created world, birth.
AntKnowledge.
BeeA king who rules his subjects.
DogA scribe, a prophet.
EyeTo guard against the plot of enemies.
LionSpiritedness, to inspire fear, sacred to Horus.
Two Feet WalkingThe course of the Sun.
FeatherA man who deals justly with all.
HareHearing, to open.
HeartHeart, reason, sacred to Hermes.
TongueSpeech, command.
LadderA siege.
KnotTo ward off demons, a talisman.
Fig TreeA man who loves his sweet wife.
Palm TreeThe year.

3.4 Runic and Celtic Systems: The Lore of Northern Europe

The magickal alphabets of Northern Europe, including the Runes and the Ogham, possess their own rich cosmological and divinatory systems.

1. The Runes

The most ancient runic alphabet is the Elder Futhark, composed of 24 letters divided into three groups of eight (aettir). "Futhark" is derived from the names of the first six runes.

The Elder Futhark Runes
RuneTrans.NameMeaningHomeric ValuePythagorean Value
FFehuCattle, possessions11
UUruzStrength, wild ox22
ThThurisazThorn, giant, gate33
AAnsuzGod, mouth, signal44
RRaidoJourney55
KKaunazTorch, opening67
GGeboGift, partnership78
WWunjoJoy, bliss89
HHagalazHail910
NNauthizNeed, constraint1020
IIsaIce1130
JJeraYear, harvest1240
EiEihwazYew tree1350
PPerthroLot cup1460
ZAlgizElk, protection1570
SSowiloSun1680
TTiwazThe God Tyr17100
BBerkanoBirch tree18200
EEhwazHorse19300
MMannazMan20400
LLaguzWater, lake21500
NgIngwazThe God Ing22600
OOthalaInheritance, estate23700
DDagazDay24800

Runes were also used in calendrical calculations, with a specific code for the numbers 1 through 19, known as the "Golden Number Series."

Norse Calendrical Rune Number Code
ValueRuneValueRune
1ᚠ (F)11ᛋ (S)
2ᚢ (U)12ᛏ (T)
3ᚦ (Th)13ᛒ (B)
4ᚩ (O)14ᛚ (L)
5ᚱ (R)15ᛘ (M)
6ᚴ (K)16ᚣ (Y)
7ᚼ (H)17(Aett)
8ᚾ (N)18(Tvi-mathr)
9ᛁ (I)19(Belgthor)
10ᛅ (A)
2. Ogham and Druidic Alphabets

The Ogham is an ancient Irish script, often called the "tree alphabet," where each letter corresponds to a specific tree. The characters are formed by a series of straight lines incised along a central stem-line. A hand alphabet also exists, using fingers to represent the letters against a ridge line (such as the nose or arm). The ancient Beth-Luis-Nion (BLN) alphabet, a precursor to Ogham, encodes the sacred Qabalistic number 32 in its structure, suggesting a possible link between Celtic and Hebraic traditions.

Ogham Tree Alphabet
LetterNameCorresponding Tree
BBethBirch
LLuisElm, Mountain Ash
FFernAlder
SSailWillow
NNinAsh, Nettle
HHuathHawthorn, Whitethorn
DDairOak
TTinneCypress, Holly
CCollHazel
QQueirtApple, Holly
MMuinVine
GGortIvy, Mistletoe
NgGetalReed, Broom
ZStraifBlackthorn
RRuisElder
AAilmFir, Apple
OOnnBroom, Furze
UUraHeath, Ash
EEdadIvy, Aspen
IIdadYew

3.5 The Latin System: Renaissance Hermeticism

During the Renaissance, esotericists adapted the principles of the Hebrew Qabalah to the Latin alphabet, creating new systems for alphanumeric correspondence and cosmological mapping.

1. The Art of Raymond Lull

The 14th-century mystic Raymond Lull developed a system of concentric wheels inscribed with letters corresponding to divine attributes. By rotating the wheels, new combinations of concepts could be generated, forming a prototype for later cosmological graphs and even early computing. His Enneagram assigned the letters B through K to nine categories of virtues, vices, and philosophical questions.

Lull's Enneagram
LetterVirtuesVicesQuestionsCategories
BJusticeAvariceWhether?Quantity
CPrudenceGluttonyWhat?Quality
DStrengthExcessFrom where?Relation
ETemperanceArroganceWhy?Active
FFaithBitternessHow much?Passive
GHopeEnvyWhat kind?Nature
HCharitySlothWhen?Time
IPatienceAngerWhere?Position
KHumilityLyingHow?State
2. Latin Ciphers

Several ciphers were developed to assign numerical values to the Latin alphabet, often reducing it to 22 letters to parallel the Hebrew model.

Italian Latin Ciphers (22-Letter Alphabet)
LetterCabala SimplexCabala Ordinis (Italian)Cabala Ordinis (German)
A111
B222
C333
D444
E555
F666
G777
H888
I (J)999
L102010
M113020
N124030
O135040
P146050
Q157060
R168070
S179080
T1810090
V (U)19200100
X20300200
Y21400300
Z22500400

German systems also developed polygonal codes based on a 24-letter alphabet, where values were calculated using mathematical formulas.

German Latin Ciphers (Polygonal Calculation)
LetterSerial OrderTriangular CabalaQuadrangular CabalaPentagonal Cabala
A1111
B2345
C36912
D4101622
E5152535
F6213651
G7284970
H8366492
I, J94581117
K1055100145
L1166121176
M1278144210
N1391169247
O14105196287
P15120225330
Q16136256376
R17153289425
S18171324477
T19190361532
U, V20210400590
W21231441651
X22253484715
Y23276529782
Z24300576852

3.6 The Enochian System: The Angelic Language of John Dee

The Enochian system, received by Dr. John Dee and Edward Kelley in the late 16th century, is one of the most complex and powerful magickal languages in the Western tradition. It includes a unique 21-letter alphabet and an elaborate cosmology based on four great "Watchtowers."

1. The Enochian Alphabet

The alphabet has several numbering systems attributed to it by Dee, the Hermetic Order of the Golden Dawn, and Aleister Crowley.

LetterNameTrans.Hebrew ModelDee ValueG.D. ValueCrowley Value
AUnA,aAleph1630
BPaB,bBeth252
C/KVehC,kGimel3840
DGalD,dDaleth44400
EGraphE,eHeh575
FOrF,fVav6300, 4006
GGedG,gZain793
HNaH,hCheth878
I/YGonI,yTeth9109
LUrL,lLamed103030
MTalM,mMem209040
NDruxN,nNun305050
OMedO,oAyin407070
PMalsP,pPeh508080
QGerQ,qQoph60100100
RDonR,rResh70200200
SFamS,sShin8030090
TGisgT,tTav90400400
U/V/WVanU,v,wKaph10066
XPalX,xSamekh2006060
ZCephZ,zTzaddi3001, 9, 1090
2. Grammatical Analysis

Research suggests that Enochian is an artificial, or constructed, language rather than a natural one. This is evidenced by its inconsistent grammatical structure, where the addition of a single letter to a root word arbitrarily changes its meaning without a logical pattern.

Enochian Grammatical Terminative
Letter Added to RootGrammatical EffectExample (Root: LUSD - "feet")
A-ing, theirLUSDA - "their feet"
Dthy-
Ewith-
ImyLUSDI - "my feet"
LshallTORZUL - "shall rise" (from TORZU - "arise")
ONof...ALDON - "of gathering" (from ALDI - "gather up")
3. The Rectified Watchtowers

The complex lettered squares of the four Enochian Watchtowers have often been published with scribal errors. The following information is presented as a correction to these versions. The true pattern behind the Watchtowers is based on 91 seven-lettered names of Angelic Governors, which are derived from seven tangent squares on the tablets. Below is a simplified reconstruction of the Air Watchtower demonstrating this rectified structure, with the Great Central Cross highlighted to show its form.

Air Watchtower Reconstruction (Simplified)
TOSIFM
AIDOIG
CCARGO
RZILAORAIAO
ZARENNAABNO
ILAFINSATTX
CZINAAAIASO
ZARENHTMORE
MOOAST
ASTERA
ANGELU
SUOTUA
4. Angelic Hierarchy

Within each of the four Watchtowers resides a complex hierarchy of 88 names of power, in addition to the 22 Angelic Governors. This creates a total of 444 God names within the complete system.

The Enochian Angelic Hierarchy of Each of the Four Enochian Watchtowers
Number of Names88 Names of PowerLetters in NamesWatchtower Squares Generating the Names
1Great King8Central 8 squares as a Spiral
1Trumpeter2Central 2 squares
5Servants (Princes)2 x 510 squares bordering central 8 squares
3Ensign Bearers3 + 4 + 512 squares of Linea Spiritus
6Seniors6 x 736 squares of Linea Patris, Filius et Spiritus
8Kerubic God Names(4 x 5) + (4)16 Kerubic squares and Tablet of Union letters
16Kerubic Angels4 x 4 x 416 Kerubic squares
8Servient God Names4 x (5 + 6)40 squares of 4 Sephirotic Crosses
16Servient Angels4 x 4 x 464 Servient (Elemental) squares
8Cacodemon God Names4 x (5 + 6)40 squares of 4 adverse Sephirotic crosses
16Cacodemons4 x 4 x 332 Servient squares and 8 Tablet of Union letters

3.7 The Tarot: A Pictorial Key to the Mysteries

The Tarot is a system of 78 cards that serves not only as a tool for divination but also as a comprehensive pictorial key to the Western Mysteries, particularly the Hebrew Qabalah.

1. Divinatory Meanings

The core divinatory meanings for the cards were codified by the Hermetic Order of the Golden Dawn, drawing heavily on the Qabalistic research of S.L. MacGregor Mathers. The following tables provide a concise reference.

Table I: The 22 Major Arcana
CardGolden Dawn Phrase
0. The FoolIdea, thought, spirituality
I. The MagicianSkill, wisdom, craft, cunning
II. The High PriestessChange, alternation, increase and decrease
III. The EmpressBeauty, happiness, pleasure, success
IV. The EmperorWar, conquest, victory, strife
V. The HierophantMercy, goodness, inspiration
VI. The LoversInspiration, intuition, sympathy
VII. The ChariotTriumph, victory, overcoming opposition
VIII. StrengthCourage, strength, fortitude
IX. The HermitWisdom sought and obtained from above
X. Wheel of FortuneGood fortune, success, happiness
XI. JusticeEternal justice and balance, strength
XII. The Hanged ManEnforced sacrifice, punishment
XIII. DeathTime, transformation, involuntary change
XIV. TemperanceCombination of forces, realization
XV. The DevilMateriality, material force, illusion
XVI. The TowerRuin, overthrow, disruption
XVII. The StarHope, faith, unexpected help
XVIII. The MoonIllusion, deception, bewilderment
XIX. The SunGlory, gain, riches, triumph
XX. JudgementFinal decision, judgement, sentence
XXI. The WorldThe matter itself, synthesis, success
Table II: The 40 Minor Arcana
CardGolden Dawn Phrase
Ace of WandsForce, strength, rush, vigor, energy
Two of WandsDominion, power, harmony of rule
Three of WandsEstablished strength, virtue
Four of WandsPerfected work, completion
Five of WandsStrife, quarreling, fighting
Six of WandsVictory, success after strife
Seven of WandsValor, opposition, possible victory
Eight of WandsSwiftness, rapidity, too much force applied
Nine of WandsGreat strength, power, recovery from sickness
Ten of WandsOppression, cruelty and malice
Ace of CupsFertility, productiveness, beauty
Two of CupsLove, pleasure, warmth, mirth
Three of CupsAbundance, hospitality, pleasure
Four of CupsBlended pleasure, but with some anxiety
Five of CupsDisappointment, sorrow, loss in pleasure
Six of CupsPleasure commencing, wish, happiness
Seven of CupsIllusionary success, deception in promises
Eight of CupsAbandonment of success, decline of interest
Nine of CupsComplete success, pleasure and happiness
Ten of CupsPerfected success, matters arranged as wished
Ace of SwordsInvoked force, whirling force, strength
Two of SwordsPeace restored, truce, arrangement
Three of SwordsSorrow, mourning, unhappiness
Four of SwordsRest from strife, yet after war
Five of SwordsDefeat, loss, malice, spite, slander
Six of SwordsEarned success, success after anxiety
Seven of SwordsUnstable effort, vacillation
Eight of SwordsShortened force, restricted, petty
Nine of SwordsDespair, cruelty, suffering
Ten of SwordsRuin, death, failure, disruption
Ace of PentaclesMaterial gain, power, wealth, success
Two of PentaclesHarmonious change, pleasant change
Three of PentaclesMaterial works, constructing, building
Four of PentaclesAssured material gain, success
Five of PentaclesMaterial trouble, loss of money, poverty
Six of PentaclesMaterial success, prosperity in business
Seven of PentaclesUnprofitable speculation, promises not fulfilled
Eight of PentaclesPrudence, over-carefulness in small things
Nine of PentaclesComplete material gain and wealth
Ten of PentaclesRiches and wealth, prosperity
Table III: The 16 Court Cards
CardGolden Dawn Phrase
Knight of WandsSwift, strong, hasty, rather violent
Queen of WandsAdaptable, steady, determined
King of WandsActive, generous, fierce, sudden
Page of WandsBrilliance, courage, beauty, force
Knight of CupsGraceful, poetic, indolent, but enthusiastic
Queen of CupsVery imaginative, poetic, coquette
King of CupsGraceful, poetic, sensual, idle, calm
Page of CupsSweetness, poetry, gentleness
Knight of SwordsActive, clever, subtle, fierce, delicate
Queen of SwordsIntensely perceptive, keen observation
King of SwordsFull of ideas, thoughts, and designs
Page of SwordsFirm, vigilant, aggressive
Knight of PentaclesHeavy, dull, laborious, clever in material matters
Queen of PentaclesWoman of business, practical, sensible
King of PentaclesLaborious, patient, clever in material things
Page of PentaclesDiligent, benevolent, careful, laborious
2. The Esoteric Qabalistic Structure

S.L. MacGregor Mathers was instrumental in revealing the secret structure connecting the Tarot to the Qabalah, a system that underpins all modern esoteric Tarot interpretation.

  • Major Arcana: The 22 Major Arcana cards correspond to the 22 letters of the Hebrew alphabet and the 22 paths connecting the Sephiroth on the Tree of Life. Mathers rectified the traditional order to align with the astrological attributes given in the Sepher Yetzirah.
The Rectified Hebraic Order of the Tarot
Tarot KeyHebrew LetterAstrological Attribute
0. The FoolAleph (א)Air
I. The MagicianBeth (ב)Mercury
II. The High PriestessGimel (ג)Moon
III. The EmpressDaleth (ד)Venus
IV. The EmperorHeh (ה)Aries
V. The HierophantVav (ו)Taurus
VI. The LoversZain (ז)Gemini
VII. The ChariotCheth (ח)Cancer
VIII. StrengthTeth (ט)Leo
IX. The HermitYod (י)Virgo
X. The WheelKaph (כ)Jupiter
XI. JusticeLamed (ל)Libra
XII. The Hanged ManMem (מ)Water
XIII. DeathNun (נ)Scorpio
XIV. TemperanceSamekh (ס)Sagittarius
XV. The DevilAyin (ע)Capricorn
XVI. The TowerPeh (פ)Mars
XVII. The StarTzaddi (צ)Aquarius
XVIII. The MoonQoph (ק)Pisces
XIX. The SunResh (ר)Sun
XX. JudgementShin (ש)Fire
XXI. The WorldTav (ת)Saturn
  • Minor Arcana: The four suits correspond to the four Qabalistic worlds, and the ten numbered cards in each suit correspond to the ten Sephiroth of the Tree of Life.
Four Qabalistic Worlds
WorldTarot SuitTetragrammatonElement
Atziloth (Archetype)WandsYod (I)Fire
Briah (Creative)CupsHeh (H)Water
Yetzirah (Formative)SwordsVav (V)Air
Assiah (Action)PentaclesHeh Final (Hf)Earth
  • Court Cards: The four ranks of the Court Cards (Knight, Queen, King, Page) correspond to the four letters of the Tetragrammaton and the archetypal family unit of Father, Mother, Son, and Daughter.
3. Symbolism of the Waite Deck

The Tarot deck designed by A.E. Waite and illustrated by Pamela Colman Smith is rich with hidden symbolism that encodes the Golden Dawn's esoteric correspondences.

  • The High Priestess: The crescent moon at her feet explicitly links her to the Moon, the attribute of the Hebrew letter Gimel, clarifying her position as Key II. The pillars, Jachin and Boaz, and the veil behind her further cement her Qabalistic role.
  • The Emperor: The four rams' heads adorning the throne are a blatant clue to this card's correspondence with the zodiacal sign of Aries, the Ram, and the Hebrew letter Heh. The predominant use of red aligns with the Golden Dawn's color scale for Aries.
  • The Chariot: This card's ruler is Cancer, which is governed by the Moon. Waite encodes this with the crescent moons on the Charioteer's shoulders and the starry canopy representing the heavens through which the Moon travels. The two sphinxes, one black and one white, represent the dual forces the Charioteer must balance.
  • The Devil: The goat's head and the inverted pentagram directly link this card to the zodiacal sign of Capricorn, the Goat. The astrological sigil for Saturn, Capricorn's planetary ruler, is subtly inscribed in the Devil's raised right hand.
  • The Tower: The lightning bolt that strikes the tower is a direct visual reference to the astrological symbol for Mars (a circle with a projecting arrow). This identifies the card's correspondence with the planet Mars and the Hebrew letter Peh. The 22 yellow flames in the sky represent the 22 paths of the Tree of Life.

The intricate symbolic languages of the West, with their layered meanings and cosmological depth, now give way to the ancient and distinct systems of the East.

4.0 The Eastern Mystery Traditions

This section explores the sacred languages and cosmological models of the East. While these traditions—from the ancient cuneiform of Sumeria to the profound systems of India and China—developed separately from those of the West, they often share fundamental principles. Here too, we find a deep and abiding correspondence between number, symbol, cosmology, and spiritual concepts, revealing a universal human impulse to decode the structure of reality.

4.1 Cuneiform: The Dawn of Alphanumeric Symbolism

Sumerian Cuneiform, one of the world's oldest writing systems, represents a proto-magickal language. While not a fully isopsephic system where every word could be numbered, it possessed a limited cryptographic code where specific number signs were used in place of certain god-names in astrological and magickal texts.

Sumerian God Names
God NameCuneiform Number SignNumber Value
Anu (God of the Heavens)Single vertical wedge60
Enlil (The Storm God)Two vertical wedges50
Ea (The Water God)Four horizontal wedges40
Sin (The Moon God)Three horizontal wedges30
Shamash (The Sun God)Two horizontal wedges20
Ishtar (Goddess of the Moon)One horizontal and one vertical wedge15

4.2 The Arabic System: Sufi Mysticism and Cosmology

The Arabic esoteric tradition, particularly within Sufism, developed a rich system of alphanumeric correspondences that parallels the Hebrew Qabalah.

1. Number Codes

Two primary numbering systems exist for the 28-letter Arabic alphabet. The Eastern (Abjad or Egyptian) system rearranges the alphabet to match the Hebrew order and is the primary code for esoteric work. The Western (Moroccan) system follows the normal sequential order of the alphabet.

2. The 99 Beautiful Names of God

The Quran provides 99 names, or attributes, for God. Each name possesses a distinct numerical value and is used in mystical practice and talismanic magick.

Selected Names of God
PronunciationMeaningEgyptian Value
Ar-RahmanThe Compassionate329
Ar-RahimThe Merciful289
Al-MalikThe King121
Al-KuddusThe Holy201
As-SalamThe Peace162
Al-MuminThe Faithful167
Al-AzizThe Mighty125
Al-HakimThe Wise109
Al-WadudThe Loving51
Al-HakkThe Truth139
Al-HayyThe Living49
Al-AhadThe One44
An-NurThe Light287
3. Cosmological Attributes

The Sufi mystic Ibn al-Arabi developed a sophisticated system linking each of the 28 Arabic letters to elements, zodiacal signs, planets, and colors in a special order.

Arabic Astrological Symbols (Selected)
LetterElementZodiacPlanetColor
AFireAriesMarsRed
JWaterTaurusVenusGreen
ZAirGeminiMercurySandalwood
ShEarthCancerMoonWhite
TFireLeoSunYellow
DhWaterVirgoMercurySandalwood
KhAirLibraVenusGreen
TzEarthScorpioMarsRed

4.3 The Sanskrit System: Vedic and Tantrik Keys

The sacred language of Sanskrit is the foundation for several complex numerical and spiritual systems integral to Vedic and Tantrik traditions.

1. Number Codes

Several esoteric codes exist for numbering the Sanskrit alphabet, including the KaTaPaYa system and the ARYaBhaTa system. These codes allow for the transformation of words and verses into numerical formulas.

2. The Chakra System

The Chakra system describes seven primary energy centers located along the spine, from the base to the crown of the head. Each chakra is associated with an element, a psychological function, and a specific number of "petals" corresponding to letters of the Sanskrit alphabet.

Basic Attributes of the Seven Chakras
OrderSanskrit NameEnglish NameLocationElement
1MuladharaRootBase of spineEarth
2SvadhisthanaSacralGenitalsWater
3ManipuraSolar PlexusNavelFire
4AnahataHeartHeartAir
5VisuddhaThroatThroatEther
6AjnaThird EyeBetween eyebrowsAll Tattvas
7SahasraraCrownTop of headPoint (Bindu)
3. The Tattva System

The Tattva system outlines the five subtle elements that are the building blocks of creation. This system was adopted and adapted by the Hermetic Order of the Golden Dawn, creating a bridge between Eastern and Western elemental thought.

Golden Dawn Tattva System
TattvaShapeColorElementPlanet
AkashaBlack EggBlackSpiritSaturn
VayuBlue CircleBlueAirJupiter
TejasRed TriangleRedFireMars
ApasSilver CrescentSilverWaterVenus
PrithiviYellow SquareYellowEarthMercury

4.4 The Tibetan System: Vajrayana Symbolism

The Tibetan alphabet, composed of 30 consonants, has a numerical code based on the Southern Indian serial order for Sanskrit. Each letter also possesses a deeper symbolic meaning relevant to Vajrayana Buddhism.

Tibetan Alphabet (Selected)
CharacterTransliterationNumber ValueSymbolic Meaning
K1Root, beginning, power
Kh2Face, mouth, front side
G3Essence of Buddha; the hidden
N4Matter in constant change; dissolution
C5Noise, cry, clamour, sound
Ch6Intelligence, word
J7Beginning, origin, birth
N8Entrance, access, gate, door
T9The number five; to desire
Th10The skull, forehead; thought
D11Power, to be able
N12Pain, disease; a jewel

4.5 The Chinese System: Taoist Cosmology and the I Ching

Chinese esoteric thought is built on a sophisticated cosmology that predates many Western systems. Its principles have been preserved and elaborated through Taoist philosophy and divination.

1. Cosmological Foundations

The core concepts are Yin-Yang—the passive, feminine (Yin) and active, masculine (Yang) principles whose interplay generates all phenomena—and the Five Elements. The Chinese elements operate in cycles of creation and destruction, providing a dynamic model of cosmic harmony.

Harmony of the Five Chinese Elements
ElementParent (Creates)Child (Is Created By)Enemy (Destroys)Friend (Is Destroyed By)
WoodWaterFireMetalEarth
FireWoodEarthWaterMetal
EarthFireMetalWoodWater
MetalEarthWaterFireWood
WaterMetalWoodEarthFire
2. The I Ching

The I Ching, or "Book of Changes," is an ancient divinatory text based on 64 six-line figures called hexagrams. Each hexagram is composed of two three-line figures, or trigrams. The eight basic trigrams form the fundamental building blocks of the system.

The Eight Basic Trigrams
TrigramNameMeaningElement
Ch'ienThe CreativeSky
TuiThe JoyfulLake
LiThe ClingingFire
ChenThe ArousingThunder
SunThe GentleWood/Wind
K'anThe AbysmalWater
KenThe Keeping StillMountain
K'unThe ReceptiveEarth

Each of the 64 hexagrams has a core judgment providing oracular guidance. For example:

  • Hexagram 1: Ch'ien (The Creative): Judgment: The Creative works sublime success, furthering through perseverance.
  • Hexagram 2: K'un (The Receptive): Judgment: The Receptive brings about sublime success, furthering through the perseverance of a mare.
  • Hexagram 11: T'ai (Peace): Judgment: Peace. The small departs and the great approaches. Good fortune. Success.
3. Numbering Calligraphy

A primary method for assigning numerical values in Chinese is based on the number of strokes required to execute a given calligraphic character. For instance, a character written with eight strokes has a value of 8. This system is foundational to numerological analysis in Chinese culture.

These Eastern systems transition us to our final section, which explores significant traditions from the New World and the modern era.


5.0 Other Significant Systems

This final section covers important esoteric systems that fall outside the primary East-West geographic classification, including the rich calendrical traditions of pre-Columbian America and the modern application of ancient Qabalistic principles to the English language.

5.1 New World Calendrical Systems

For the ancient Aztec and Mayan civilizations, the symbolism for the first 20 numbers was deeply embedded in their calendrical day signs. Their primary cosmic year was a 260-day cycle (13 months of 20 days), which was later harmonized with a 365-day solar year (18 months of 20 days, plus five "empty" days). The Mayans developed three distinct sets of symbolic images for these 20 numbers:

  1. The Day Glyphs: Hieroglyphic images for each of the 20 days, paralleling the Aztec system.
  2. The God Head Count: A series of alternate glyphs based on the heads of deities.
  3. Bar and Circle Notation: A numerical system where a dot represents one and a bar represents five.

This intricate calendrical numerology demonstrates a highly sophisticated and unique approach to encoding cosmological principles within a symbolic framework.

5.2 The English Language: Modern Esoteric Applications

Inspired by the Hebrew Qabalah, modern esotericists have applied similar principles to the 26-letter English alphabet, developing various systems of numerology and symbolic interpretation.

1. Numbering Systems

Several systems exist for assigning numerical values to the English alphabet. The most common are the simple serial order and two Pythagorean-style reduction systems.

LetterABC Serial OrderFadic NumerologyModern Numerology
A111
B222
C333
D444
E555
F686
G737
H858
I919
J1011
K1122
L1233
M1344
N1455
O1576
P1687
Q1718
R1829
S1931
T2042
U2163
V2264
W2365
X2456
Y2517
Z2678
2. Hieroglyphic Meanings

Each English letter can also be interpreted as a symbolic picture or hieroglyph based on its shape.

  • A: The pyramid and its capstone; the Masonic compass; an arrowhead; the ox head and horns.
  • G: The crescent Moon and the Tau cross; a spiral; the coiled serpent Kundalini; the rose-cross.
  • H: A ladder reaching to heaven; the two pillars of the temple joined by a veil; the sign of infinity.
  • I: The erect phallus; the spine; the world-axis; the wand of the magician.
  • Z: The lightning bolt descending from the heavens; as above, so below; the zigzag path.
3. The Significance of 26 and 93

Certain numbers have gained prominence in modern esotericism due to significant Qabalistic correspondences.

  • 26: This number is paramount in Qabalah as the numerical value of the Hebrew Tetragrammaton, IHVH (10+5+6+5 = 26). Remarkably, using the ABC Serial Order, the English word GOD also equals 26 (7+15+4 = 26), creating a direct link between the supreme name of God in Hebrew and English.
  • 93: This number is central to the system of Thelema, founded by Aleister Crowley. As shown in the introduction, it is the numerical value of both the Greek words Thelema (Will) and Agape (Love), signifying their mystical unity.

6.0 Conclusion: Towards a Universal Magickal Language

This manual has journeyed through a diverse landscape of sacred languages and magickal systems, from the foundational cosmological keys of the West to the ancient alphanumeric codes of the East and their modern English applications. What emerges from this comparative study is not a collection of disparate curiosities, but a profound testament to a universal human endeavor: the quest to understand the hidden structure of the cosmos through the interplay of symbol, number, and language.

The primary mission inspiring this work has been the reconstruction of the fabled Rosicrucian "Magickal Language Dictionary," a text referred to as Liber Thesaurus. This legendary book was envisioned as a comprehensive lexicon cataloging the world's sacred languages by their numerical values, serving as an oracle and a key to the divine language of the universe.

While that original text may be lost to time, the spirit of its creation lives on. The keys provided in this manual—the tables of correspondence, the explanations of cosmological patterns, and the deciphering of esoteric alphabets—are intended to empower the modern student, researcher, and practitioner. They are the tools needed to continue this Great Work, to explore the infinite nuances of meaning hidden within number, and to participate in the ongoing act of decoding the divine language through which the universe speaks.